They still call me Colonel after all of the
years
I always appreciate it and the emotions
sometimes bring tears.
That was my rank when a decade ago I retired
Yet they still call me Colonel through its
no longer required.
Officers and their agencies have a special
connect
And with the passing of time, this I want to
protect.
Being remembered by those with whom I once
served
They still call me Colonel, a great honor
that they have preserved.
It may be from habit that I’m called by my
old rank
But to the many who still do it I sincerely
thank
It makes me feel good and makes me proud
Knowing with such kind people my former
agency is endowed.
I am neither a vain person nor ego impelled
But when I’m called Colonel I feel so
upheld.
What a great group of people with whom I was
honored to serve
I hope when they retire they continue to get
the respect they deserve.
© Kent Fletcher
April 2012
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kent Fletcher retired as Deputy Chief of the Durham NC
Police Dept. He served with that department for 301/2 years. He is a graduate
of the 162nd session of the FBI National Academy and has an AA and BS degree in
Justice Administration from Guilford College. Writing short stories and poetry
has become a part-time hobby. He can be reached at
hkfletcher@nc.rr.com
